Money isn’t the sexiest aspect of travel, but without it you don’t get very far. Get acquainted with Swedish notes and coins, plus a few other crucial bits of information, and you’ll minimise the chances of awkwardness, theft or abuse. Here’s what you need to know.
Currency
The unit of currency is Swedish kronor (abbreviated SEK). 1 krona is divided into 100 Ore. The different coins are 50 Ore, 1 krona, 5 kronor, 10 kronor and the bank notes are 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 kronor.
Automated Teller Machines - ATMs
There are ATMs located all over town mainly inside or outside bank and post offices, major credit cards are accepted.
Currency exchange
Foreign currencies can be changed in all banks. Foreign exchange bureaus usually offer a better exchange rate than banks. Changing your money at hotels is the most expensive option.
Forex:
Central Station
Tel: +46-31-15 65 16
Forex :
Kungsportsavenyn 22
Tel: +46-31-18 57 60
X-change:
Kungsportsplatsen
Tel: +46-31-10 11 11
More information: http://www.forex.se/
Credit cards
All major credit cards are honored throughout Gothenburg at banks, hotels, stores, restaurants, taxis and car rental agencies. But there is one exception, the Post Office.
Traveller’s cheques
Traveller’s cheques can be exchanged in banks, hotels or at any of Forex offices. Travellers with EU bank account can use Euro-cheques as above.
For lost travelers cheques:
American Express Foreign Exchange Service
Tel: 020-56 55 55
More information: http://travel.americanexpress.com/travel/personal/resources/tso/tsolistcity.asp
Cost of stay
There is a belief that Sweden is the most expensive country in Europe. That is no longer true. Nowadays Sweden is cheaper than the other Nordic countries and not more expensive than other European countries like France or Germany. But there is one exception, liquor, both at Systembolaget and at the restaurant. According to the Big Mac index Sweden number 6 in Europe.
